airbuzz
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How does fly-by works? How is it possible that after fly-by I have more energy than before? Where do I take it?
The discussion centers around the mechanics of planetary fly-bys, specifically how spacecraft can gain energy during these maneuvers and the underlying physics of gravitational interactions. Participants explore concepts related to energy transformation, orbital mechanics, and the implications of gravity assists in space missions.
Participants express varying levels of understanding regarding the mechanics of fly-bys, with some agreeing on the role of gravitational assists while others remain uncertain about the energy transformations involved. The discussion does not reach a consensus on the specifics of energy gain.
Participants have not fully resolved the assumptions regarding energy sources and transformations during the fly-by process, and there are unresolved questions about the mechanics of gravitational interactions.
Integral said:The passing satellite picks up the ORBITAL velocity (at least a portion of it) of the body it is passing. You are correct that all energy gained from entering the gravity well of the planetary body is lost on exit. But all the time the satellite is in the gravitational influence of the planetary body it is being drug along with the orbital motion. This is the slingshot velocity.